Wildwood wildlife officials announced on August 28, 2026 that a pack of coyotes has become more visible in the vicinity of the town’s former landfill and the adjacent back‑bay area. The increased sightings have prompted the agency to install warning signs and to issue advisories aimed at local residents.
The officials emphasized that the heightened activity is confined to the specific zones surrounding the old landfill site and the back‑bay wetlands, areas that have historically provided shelter and foraging opportunities for wildlife. The new signage is intended to remind the public not to feed the animals and to maintain a safe distance.
According to the wildlife department, the move is part of an ongoing wildlife management program that seeks to balance the presence of native predators with community safety. By alerting residents to the coyotes’ presence, the agency hopes to reduce the likelihood of human‑animal interactions that could lead to conflicts or encourage habituation.
The warnings also serve to educate the public about the natural behavior of coyotes, which are opportunistic hunters and scavengers. The agency’s guidance stresses that feeding coyotes can alter their natural foraging patterns and increase the chance of aggressive encounters.
Local residents are being asked to keep pets on leashes, secure food sources, and report any unusual coyote behavior to wildlife officials. The department will continue to monitor the situation and adjust management strategies as needed, ensuring that both the animal population and the community coexist safely.
The recent increase in sightings underscores the importance of the town’s proactive approach to wildlife oversight, reinforcing the message that vigilance and responsible practices are essential in areas where human activity intersects with natural habitats.